How to distinguish the flu from a cold?

It’s certain that one thing or another bring us to our knees! Although they may look similar the effects and severity of each is quite different.

Get to know…

.The flu

The influenza virus affects mainly nose, throat and lungs.

Transmission: inhalation or contact with contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms: sudden onset with fever, chills, generalized pain and fatigue. Very common sore throat, head and dry cough. The little ones are often shaken by vomiting or diarrhea, but not adults.
It takes 2-4 days to heal, but if theres on quick action it can progress to ear infections, bronchitis and other respiratory infections.
As it may evolve to a more serious outcome, there is influenza vaccine refreshed each year and updated to new strains of influenza virus. Everyone should be vaccinated, especially children (> 6months), the elderly, pregnant or chronic respiratory patients considered risk groups more susceptible to complications.

The best treatment: the secret it to act as soon as possible! Rest, drink plenty of fluids and use painkillers and antipyretics to relieve symptoms.

.Cold

It affects nose and throat. It likes lower temperatures so it only affects the upper airways.

Transmission: inhalation or contact with contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms: gradually begins with sneezing and runny nose or nasal congestion, cough and mild pain, scratchy throat, drowsiness.
It can last about 1 to 3 weeks.

The best treatment: use painkillers and anti-histamincs to runny nose or decongestants for nasal congestion.

But rather than treat you should prevent it!

. Wash your hands often;. Food and supplements rich in vitamin C, echinacea and zinc help to prevent or shorten the duration of nasal congestion.. Garlic, onion, honey, lemon and ginger are great allies to fight pathogens;. Exercise is something that should also be considered. Apparently, being sedentary without any chronic illness or exercise excessively when you have an illness can decrease our natural immunity. Therefore, practice regular exercise. If there is fever, there is no exercise!